Church of San Francisco de Asís

The Church of San Francisco de Asís, known locally as Iglesia de San Francisco de Asís, stands proudly in the heart of Bilbao, Spain. This architectural gem, with its eclectic neo-Gothic style, is a testament to the city’s rich cultural tapestry and historical depth. Nestled near the bustling Plaza Zabalburu, its majestic presence invites both locals and tourists to explore its storied halls and intricate designs.

The History of the Church of San Francisco de Asís

The foundation stone of the Church of San Francisco de Asís was laid on June 30, 1890, under the watchful eye of the Bilbao-born architect Luis de Landecho y Urriés. His vision was to create a church inspired by the grandeur of Gothic cathedrals, using sandstone from Mount Oitz. This ambitious project earned him the Gold Medal at the Exposition of Fine Arts in Madrid that same year. The church's construction, set on land owned by the Mazarredo-Zabalburu family, spanned several years, finally opening for worship in 1896 and becoming a parish in 1902.

Initially, the church lacked its iconic towers, necessitating a temporary wooden structure to house the bells. These towers were completed in 1906, with the central rose window following in 1909, under the direction of architect Manuel María Smith. In 2000, the church was declared a Cultural Monument of the Basque Country, cementing its status as a vital piece of the region's heritage.

Exploring the Architecture

The exterior of the Church of San Francisco de Asís is a marvel of design, with its facade dominated by a central rose window. Twin towers capped with spires emphasize the verticality of the structure, creating a striking silhouette against the Bilbao skyline. The atrium, elevated above street level, is accessible via a staircase and enclosed by a wrought-iron fence. The portico features a semi-circular arch, slightly pointed, leading visitors into the church.

Above the entrance, a Venetian mosaic depicts the death of Saint Francis of Assisi, complemented by a frieze of six saintly figures in high relief. This blend of neo-Romanesque and neo-Gothic elements showcases the church's eclectic style. A polychrome statue of Saint Francis, crafted by Higinio Basterra, stands proudly above the central doorway, welcoming all who enter.

The Interior Splendor

Inside, the church comprises three longitudinal naves, with the central nave being wider and taller than the flanking aisles. The square pillars, adorned with Corinthian capitals, support the ribbed vaults that span the naves. The central nave features seven sections covered with elongated vaults, allowing light to flood through the large stained-glass windows that replace a traditional triforium.

The chancel, elevated above the church floor, boasts a polygonal design with six stained-glass windows illustrating key iconographic themes. Its octagonal ribbed vault is supported by pointed arches, mirroring the style of the central nave. The main altar, crafted from red marble from Ereño, adds a touch of opulence, as does the pulpit and lower interior sections, contrasting with the yellow sandstone walls.

The Stained Glass Masterpieces

The church is home to an impressive collection of stained glass, crafted by artisans from Munich. These vibrant windows, located throughout the church, depict 52 figures of saints and Church fathers, grouped in fours, except near the main altar where they appear in pairs.

In the presbytery, the Holy Trinity is flanked by figures of Saint Joseph and the Virgin on one side, and Saint Joachim and Saint Anne on the other. Below, a rectangular stained glass adds a touch of stylized elegance. The central rose window features a striking image of Christ Pantocrator, surrounded by symbolic motifs, while additional windows in the lateral naves illustrate the life of Saint Francis of Assisi.

Imagery and Artistic Treasures

The church's imagery, though relatively modern, is crafted with exquisite detail. The main altar showcases three statues, including a realistic crucifixion scene, a statue of Saint Francis of Assisi, and a depiction of the Virgin Mary, all sculpted by Mariano Bellver.

In the Comulgatorio, a wooden altarpiece features a neo-Gothic crucifix flanked by two saints. The sacristy houses a small wooden statue of Saint John the Baptist and a polychrome figure of the Immaculate Conception, both crafted with remarkable artistry. A 19th-century copy of Murillo’s head of Saint Francis completes the collection.

The Church of San Francisco de Asís is not just a place of worship; it is a vibrant tapestry of art, history, and spirituality. Its walls echo the stories of Bilbao's past and present, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring this dynamic city. Whether you are drawn by its architectural beauty, historical significance, or spiritual ambiance, the church promises a memorable experience for all who visit.